OTTAWA, Nov. 2, 2017 /CNW/ - Modern Treaties and Self-Government Agreements are at the forefront of reconciliation. Canada is committed to working with its partners to promote the full and meaningful implementation of these agreements, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.

The Honourable Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs, and Grand Chief George Mackenzie, Tlicho Government, today announced the signing of the renewal of the Tlicho Financing Agreement.

Under the Tlicho Financing Agreement, Canada provides funding to support the core operation of the Tlicho Government and implementation of the Tlicho Agreement, including land management, as well as for the delivery of federal programs and services such as economic development and health.

Under this renewed agreement, the combined impact of the application of new funding levels and the recently-announced moratorium on own-source revenue offsets results in a substantial increase to Tlicho's net transfer.

With the renewal of the Tlicho Financing Agreement, the Government of Canada continues to honour its commitments and work with the Tlicho Government to implement the Tlicho Agreement to support social and economic development. Furthermore, this is a sign of collaboration within the treaty partnership. The renewed Financing Agreement will be in place for three years ending March 31, 2020. The parties may also agree to replace the Financing Agreement sooner should Canada implement revised policies as a result of the Collaborative Fiscal Policy Development Process.

Quotes

"Implementation of modern treaties is key to advancing reconciliation with Indigenous peoples in Canada. These agreements promote self-determination, and establish a foundation for social development and economic growth for the benefit of all Canadians. The effective implementation of reasonably stable, predictable, and flexible fiscal arrangements is an essential component of success for modern treaty holders such as Tlicho. Together, we will continue to forge a new government-to-government relationship based on recognition of rights, respect, collaboration, and partnership."

"After many years of hard work, we are grateful for the efforts of both parties in achieving this agreement. It represents progress in our fiscal relationship and will help us meet the needs of Tlicho citizens and support the economy of the North. We are committed to the collaborative fiscal policy development process and we see this as an important step forward in building out our Nation-to-Nation relationship and a strong fiscal foundation for our government. Our ability to help our people and promote our way of life is fundamental to who we are."

George MackenzieTlicho Government

Quick Facts

The first Tlicho Financing Agreement came into effect in 2005 and was signed by the Tlicho Government and Canada. This agreement provided funding to support the Tlicho Government in implementing the Tlicho Agreement - a modern treaty including full self-government.

Under the renewed Financing Agreement, the Tlicho will receive a transfer of approximately $8.6 million in 2017-2018.